NASA Discovers Earth-Like Exoplanet HD 137010 b, Potentially Suitable for Life
NASA scientists have made a significant discovery that reignites the discussion on extraterrestrial life with the identification of an exoplanet named HD 137010 b. This planet is situated approximately 146 light-years from Earth and exhibits some Earth-like characteristics.
HD 137010 b orbits at the outer edge of its star's habitable zone, a region where conditions could theoretically support liquid water and a suitable atmosphere for life.
However, researchers caution that the expected surface temperatures on this planet could be extremely low, potentially reaching around minus 90 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 68 degrees Celsius), which is comparable to the average surface temperature of Mars at minus 85 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 65 degrees Celsius).
The host star, HD 137010, is similar in type to our Sun but is cooler and dimmer, posing additional challenges for the potential of life as we know it.
The planet was discovered by the Kepler Space Telescope during its second mission, K2, after observing a single transit of the planet across its star, allowing scientists to estimate its orbit and basic properties.
Calculations suggest that the planet completes an orbit in about 10 hours, compared to 13 hours for Earth, providing researchers with initial insights into its nature.
Scientific models indicate that the planet is likely very cold, although it could potentially have milder temperatures or even be classified as a "water world" if it possesses a dense, carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere compared to Earth.
According to NASA simulations, there is a 40% chance that it lies within the "conservative" habitable zone and a 51% chance in the broader "optimistic" zone. However, experts warn that there is nearly a 50% likelihood that it is completely outside the habitable zone.
To determine its potential for supporting life, scientists plan further observations using telescopes such as TESS or CHEOPS. It is important to note that the similarity of its orbit to Earth's makes the chances of observing its transit relatively rare.
It may be necessary to wait for the next generation of space telescopes to solve this cosmic puzzle.
The key question remains:
Are we alone in this vast universe, or do other worlds harbor life forms? The discovery of HD 137010 b has once again brought this question to the forefront, providing humanity with new insights into the vast possibilities beyond our planet.
